New Delhi [India]: The Supreme Court on Monday declined to ease the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)-IV measures aimed at combating air pollution in Delhi, stating it would review the matter after observing a consistent downward trend in the Air Quality Index (AQI).
SC to Review GRAP-IV Measures on Thursday
A bench comprising Justices Abhay S Oka and AG Masih emphasized the need for strict implementation of pollution-control measures. While Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati presented AQI data and recommendations for relaxation, the court noted that the AQI remains unstable and decided to revisit the issue during its next hearing on Thursday.
Accountability for NCR States
The court expressed displeasure over non-compliance with its earlier directive requiring Delhi, Rajasthan, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh to compensate construction workers affected by the restrictions. The bench ordered the Chief Secretaries of these states to appear virtually in the next hearing, asserting that top-level accountability often accelerates action.
“When we summon top officials, only then does the ball start rolling,” the court observed.
Lack of Coordination Among Authorities
Reports from court-appointed commissioners revealed glaring coordination issues among agencies like the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), Delhi Police, and Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC). The Supreme Court criticized the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) for failing to coordinate effectively.
The court directed CAQM to ensure all mitigating measures are communicated to relevant authorities and to take immediate steps to resolve inter-agency issues.
Concerns Over Safety of Commissioners
The court also addressed the safety of commissioners appointed to monitor pollution-control measures. One commissioner reported being intimidated, while others highlighted challenges like jurisdictional ambiguity and the health impacts of severe air pollution.
“Amicus Aparajita Singh urged the court to form a group to ensure the safety of commissioners, citing concerns about their security while carrying out inspections,” the court noted.
Continued Role for Commissioners
The bench commended the 13 commissioners for their diligent work and extended their appointments, instructing them to continue visits to entry points and other critical areas.
The Supreme Court reiterated its commitment to addressing the air pollution crisis comprehensively, stating that measures will only be relaxed once sustainable improvement is observed.